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Jaeger M, Dietschmann A, Austermeier S, Dinçer S, Porschitz P, Vornholz L, Maas RJ, Sprenkeler EG, Ruland J, Wirtz S, Azam T, Joosten LA, Hube B, Netea MG, Dinarello CA, Gresnigt MS. Alpha1-antitrypsin impacts innate host-pathogen interactions with Candida albicans by stimulating fungal filamentation. Virulence 2024; 15:2333367. [PMID: 38515333 PMCID: PMC11008552 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2333367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Our immune system possesses sophisticated mechanisms to cope with invading microorganisms, while pathogens evolve strategies to deal with threats imposed by host immunity. Human plasma protein α1-antitrypsin (AAT) exhibits pleiotropic immune-modulating properties by both preventing immunopathology and improving antimicrobial host defence. Genetic associations suggested a role for AAT in candidemia, the most frequent fungal blood stream infection in intensive care units, yet little is known about how AAT influences interactions between Candida albicans and the immune system. Here, we show that AAT differentially impacts fungal killing by innate phagocytes. We observed that AAT induces fungal transcriptional reprogramming, associated with cell wall remodelling and downregulation of filamentation repressors. At low concentrations, the cell-wall remodelling induced by AAT increased immunogenic β-glucan exposure and consequently improved fungal clearance by monocytes. Contrastingly, higher AAT concentrations led to excessive C. albicans filamentation and thus promoted fungal immune escape from monocytes and macrophages. This underscores that fungal adaptations to the host protein AAT can differentially define the outcome of encounters with innate immune cells, either contributing to improved immune recognition or fungal immune escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Jaeger
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Axel Dietschmann
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sophie Austermeier
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sude Dinçer
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Pauline Porschitz
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Larsen Vornholz
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine and Health, Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Ralph J.A. Maas
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory of Hematology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Evelien G.G. Sprenkeler
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Jürgen Ruland
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, School of Medicine and Health, Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Wirtz
- Medizinische Klinik 1, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tania Azam
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, USA
| | - Leo A.B. Joosten
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Jena, Germany
| | - Mihai G. Netea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Charles A. Dinarello
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Center for Infectious diseases (RCI), Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Mark S. Gresnigt
- Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, USA
- Junior Research Group Adaptive Pathogenicity Strategies, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany
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Katsipoulaki M, Stappers MHT, Malavia-Jones D, Brunke S, Hube B, Gow NAR. Candida albicans and Candida glabrata: global priority pathogens. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0002123. [PMID: 38832801 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00021-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYA significant increase in the incidence of Candida-mediated infections has been observed in the last decade, mainly due to rising numbers of susceptible individuals. Recently, the World Health Organization published its first fungal pathogen priority list, with Candida species listed in medium, high, and critical priority categories. This review is a synthesis of information and recent advances in our understanding of two of these species-Candida albicans and Candida glabrata. Of these, C. albicans is the most common cause of candidemia around the world and is categorized as a critical priority pathogen. C. glabrata is considered a high-priority pathogen and has become an increasingly important cause of candidemia in recent years. It is now the second most common causative agent of candidemia in many geographical regions. Despite their differences and phylogenetic divergence, they are successful as pathogens and commensals of humans. Both species can cause a broad variety of infections, ranging from superficial to potentially lethal systemic infections. While they share similarities in certain infection strategies, including tissue adhesion and invasion, they differ significantly in key aspects of their biology, interaction with immune cells, host damage strategies, and metabolic adaptations. Here we provide insights on key aspects of their biology, epidemiology, commensal and pathogenic lifestyles, interactions with the immune system, and antifungal resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrto Katsipoulaki
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Mark H T Stappers
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Dhara Malavia-Jones
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Neil A R Gow
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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Li S, Xv Y, Sun Y, Shen Z, Hao R, Yan J, Liu M, Liu Z, Jing T, Li X, Zhang X. Macrophage-derived CD36 + exosome subpopulations as novel biomarkers of Candida albicans infection. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14723. [PMID: 38926392 PMCID: PMC11208550 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60032-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Invasive candidiasis (IC) is a notable healthcare-associated fungal infection, characterized by high morbidity, mortality, and substantial treatment costs. Candida albicans emerges as a principal pathogen in this context. Recent academic advancements have shed light on the critical role of exosomes in key biological processes, such as immune responses and antigen presentation. This burgeoning body of research underscores the potential of exosomes in the realm of medical diagnostics and therapeutics, particularly in relation to fungal infections like IC. The exploration of exosomal functions in the pathophysiology of IC not only enhances our understanding of the disease but also opens new avenues for innovative therapeutic interventions. In this investigation, we focus on exosomes (Exos) secreted by macrophages, both uninfected and those infected with C. albicans. Our objective is to extract and analyze these exosomes, delving into the nuances of their protein compositions and subgroups. To achieve this, we employ an innovative technique known as Proximity Barcoding Assay (PBA). This methodology is pivotal in our quest to identify novel biological targets, which could significantly enhance the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for C. albicans infection. The comparative analysis of exosomal contents from these two distinct cellular states promises to yield insightful data, potentially leading to breakthroughs in understanding and treating this invasive fungal infection. In our study, we analyzed differentially expressed proteins in exosomes from macrophages and C. albicans -infected macrophages, focusing on proteins such as ACE2, CD36, CAV1, LAMP2, CD27, and MPO. We also examined exosome subpopulations, finding a dominant expression of MPO in the most prevalent subgroup, and a distinct expression of CD36 in cluster14. These findings are crucial for understanding the host response to C. albicans and may inform targeted diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Our study leads us to infer that MPO and CD36 proteins may play roles in the immune escape mechanisms of C. albicans. Additionally, the CD36 exosome subpopulations, identified through our analysis, could serve as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for C. albicans infection. This insight opens new avenues for understanding the infection's pathology and developing targeted treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Li
- Clinical Medical College of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China
| | - Yanyan Xv
- Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China
| | - Yuanyuan Sun
- Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Ziyi Shen
- The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, China
| | - Ruiying Hao
- Clinical Medical College of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China
| | - Jingjing Yan
- Clinical Medical College of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China
| | - Mengru Liu
- Clinical Medical College of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China
| | - Zhao Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China
| | - Tingting Jing
- Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Department of Dermatology, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China.
| | - Xiujuan Zhang
- Department of Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056000, China.
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Yang C, Li G, Zhang Q, Bai W, Li Q, Zhang P, Zhang J. Histone deacetylase Sir2 promotes the systemic Candida albicans infection by facilitating its immune escape via remodeling the cell wall and maintaining the metabolic activity. mBio 2024; 15:e0044524. [PMID: 38682948 PMCID: PMC11237532 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00445-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Histone deacetylation affects Candida albicans (C. albicans) pathogenicity by modulating virulence factor expression and DNA damage. The histone deacetylase Sir2 is associated with C. albicans plasticity and maintains genome stability to help C. albicans adapt to various environmental niches. However, whether Sir2-mediated chromatin modification affects C. albicans virulence is unclear. The purpose of our study was to investigate the effect of Sir2 on C. albicans pathogenicity and regulation. Here, we report that Sir2 is required for C. albicans pathogenicity, as its deletion affects the survival rate, fungal burden in different organs and the extent of tissue damage in a mouse model of disseminated candidiasis. We evaluated the impact of Sir2 on C. albicans virulence factors and revealed that the Sir2 null mutant had an impaired ability to adhere to host cells and was more easily recognized by the innate immune system. Comprehensive analysis revealed that the disruption of C. albicans adhesion was due to a decrease in cell surface hydrophobicity rather than the differential expression of adhesion genes on the cell wall. In addition, Sir2 affects the distribution and exposure of mannan and β-glucan on the cell wall, indicating that Sir2 plays a role in preventing the immune system from recognizing C. albicans. Interestingly, our results also indicated that Sir2 helps C. albicans maintain metabolic activity under hypoxic conditions, suggesting that Sir2 contributes to C. albicans colonization at hypoxic sites. In conclusion, our findings provide detailed insights into antifungal targets and a useful foundation for the development of antifungal drugs. IMPORTANCE Candida albicans (C. albicans) is the most common opportunistic fungal pathogen and can cause various superficial infections and even life-threatening systemic infections. To successfully propagate infection, this organism relies on the ability to express virulence-associated factors and escape host immunity. In this study, we demonstrated that the histone deacetylase Sir2 helps C. albicans adhere to host cells and escape host immunity by mediating cell wall remodeling; as a result, C. albicans successfully colonized and invaded the host in vivo. In addition, we found that Sir2 contributes to carbon utilization under hypoxic conditions, suggesting that Sir2 is important for C. albicans survival and the establishment of infection in hypoxic environments. In summary, we investigated the role of Sir2 in regulating C. albicans pathogenicity in detail; these findings provide a potential target for the development of antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Guanglin Li
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qiyue Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Wenhui Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qingiqng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Peipei Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiye Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
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Liu Y, Wang R, Liu J, Fan M, Ye Z, Hao Y, Xie F, Wang T, Jiang Y, Liu N, Cui X, Lv Q, Yan L. The vacuolar fusion regulated by HOPS complex promotes hyphal initiation and penetration in Candida albicans. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4131. [PMID: 38755250 PMCID: PMC11099166 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48525-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The transition between yeast and hyphae is crucial for regulating the commensalism and pathogenicity in Candida albicans. The mechanisms that affect the invasion of hyphae in solid media, whose deficiency is more related to the pathogenicity of C. albicans, have not been elucidated. Here, we found that the disruption of VAM6 or VPS41 which are components of the homotypic vacuolar fusion and protein sorting (HOPS) complex, or the Rab GTPase YPT72, all responsible for vacuole fusion, led to defects in hyphal growth in both liquid and solid media, but more pronounced on solid agar. The phenotypes of vac8Δ/Δ and GTR1OE-vam6Δ/Δ mutants indicated that these deficiencies are mainly caused by the reduced mechanical forces that drive agar and organs penetration, and confirmed that large vacuoles are required for hyphal mechanical penetration. In summary, our study revealed that large vacuoles generated by vacuolar fusion support hyphal penetration and provided a perspective to refocus attention on the role of solid agar in evaluating C. albicans invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China
| | - Ruina Wang
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China
| | - Jiacun Liu
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China
| | - Mengting Fan
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, PR China
| | - Zi Ye
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China
| | - Yumeng Hao
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China
| | - Fei Xie
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China
| | - Ting Wang
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China
| | - Yuanying Jiang
- School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, PR China
| | - Ningning Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, PR China.
| | - Xiaoyan Cui
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, PR China.
| | - Quanzhen Lv
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China.
| | - Lan Yan
- Center for Basic Research and Innovation of Medicine and Pharmacy (MOE), School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, PR China.
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Lo TL, Wang Q, Nickson J, van Denderen BJW, Deveson Lucas D, Chai HX, Knott GJ, Weerasinghe H, Traven A. The C-terminal protein interaction domain of the chromatin reader Yaf9 is critical for pathogenesis of Candida albicans. mSphere 2024; 9:e0069623. [PMID: 38376217 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00696-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Fungal infections cause a large health burden but are treated by only a handful of antifungal drug classes. Chromatin factors have emerged as possible targets for new antifungals. These targets include the reader proteins, which interact with posttranslationally modified histones to influence DNA transcription and repair. The YEATS domain is one such reader recognizing both crotonylated and acetylated histones. Here, we performed a detailed structure/function analysis of the Candida albicans YEATS domain reader Yaf9, a subunit of the NuA4 histone acetyltransferase and the SWR1 chromatin remodeling complex. We have previously demonstrated that the homozygous deletion mutant yaf9Δ/Δ displays growth defects and is avirulent in mice. Here we show that a YEATS domain mutant expected to inactivate Yaf9's chromatin binding does not display strong phenotypes in vitro, nor during infection of immune cells or in a mouse systemic infection model, with only a minor virulence reduction in vivo. In contrast to the YEATS domain mutation, deletion of the C-terminal domain of Yaf9, a protein-protein interaction module necessary for its interactions with SWR1 and NuA4, phenocopies the null mutant. This shows that the C-terminal domain is essential for Yaf9 roles in vitro and in vivo, including C. albicans virulence. Our study informs on the strategies for therapeutic targeting of Yaf9, showing that approaches taken for the mammalian YEATS domains by disrupting their chromatin binding might not be effective in C. albicans, and provides a foundation for studying YEATS proteins in human fungal pathogens.IMPORTANCEThe scarcity of available antifungal drugs and rising resistance demand the development of therapies with new modes of action. In this context, chromatin regulation may be a target for novel antifungal therapeutics. To realize this potential, we must better understand the roles of chromatin regulators in fungal pathogens. Toward this goal, here, we studied the YEATS domain chromatin reader Yaf9 in Candida albicans. Yaf9 uses the YEATS domain for chromatin binding and a C-terminal domain to interact with chromatin remodeling complexes. By constructing mutants in these domains and characterizing their phenotypes, our data indicate that the Yaf9 YEATS domain might not be a suitable therapeutic drug target. Instead, the Yaf9 C-terminal domain is critical for C. albicans virulence. Collectively, our study informs how a class of chromatin regulators performs their cellular and pathogenesis roles in C. albicans and reveals strategies to inhibit them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tricia L Lo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Joshua Nickson
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Bryce J W van Denderen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | | | - Her Xiang Chai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Gavin J Knott
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Harshini Weerasinghe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Ana Traven
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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Zhang Q, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Sui Y, Du Y, Yang L, Yin Y. Antifungal and anti-biofilm activities of patchouli alcohol against Candida albicans. Int J Med Microbiol 2024; 314:151596. [PMID: 38128407 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmm.2023.151596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans could cause severe clinical outcomes which could be exacerbated by the scarcity of antifungals. The capacity of C. albicans to form biofilms on medical devices that are hard to eradicate, further deepen the need to develop antifungal agents. In this study, we, for the first time, showed that patchouli alcohol (PA) can inhibit the growth of multiple C. albicans strains, as well as four other Candida species, with MICs of 64 μg/mL and MFCs from 64 to 128 μg/mL. The biofilm formation and development, adhesion, yeast-to-hyphal transition and extracellular polysaccharide of C. albicans can be inhibited by PA in a concentration-dependent manner. Confocal microscopy analyses of cells treated with PA showed that PA can increase the membrane permeability and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In C. elegans, PA did not influence the survival below 64 μg/mL. In this study PA demonstrated antifungal and antibiofilm activity against C. albicans and our results showed the potential of developing PA to fight Candida infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiulei Zhang
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Jingxiao Zhang
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 218# Ziqiang Street, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yujie Sui
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 265# Ziqiang Street, Changchun 130041, China
| | - Yang Du
- Eye Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, #4026 Yatai Street, Changchun 130024, China
| | - Longfei Yang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, 265# Ziqiang Street, Changchun 130041, China.
| | - Yongjie Yin
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130041, China.
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8
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Wu X, Sun L, Huang L, Huang C, Sun K, Li H. Proteomic alterations associated with the formation of monocyte extracellular trap induced by Candida albicans hyphae. Future Microbiol 2024; 19:307-316. [PMID: 38358357 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The interaction between the host and Candida albicans is dynamic and intricate. We performed proteomic analysis to explore monocyte-C. albicans hyphae interaction. Materials & methods: Primary human monocytes were stimulated by heat-killed C. albicans hyphae and their proteins were profiled by tandem liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results: Based on the protein database of different species for analysis, we found that stimulation of monocytes by hyphae was accompanied by upregulation of histones and activation of extracellular traps (ETs) formation pathway. Meanwhile, monocyte ETs (MoETs) were evoked by synthesis or alteration of C. albicans cell wall proteins expression during the morphological switch to hyphal. Conclusion: MoETs formation is linked to cell wall proteins of C. albicans hyphae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Liying Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chenwei Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Kuixia Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Haixia Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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9
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Sonnberger J, Kasper L, Lange T, Brunke S, Hube B. "We've got to get out"-Strategies of human pathogenic fungi to escape from phagocytes. Mol Microbiol 2024; 121:341-358. [PMID: 37800630 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Human fungal pathogens are a deadly and underappreciated risk to global health that most severely affect immunocompromised individuals. A virulence attribute shared by some of the most clinically relevant fungal species is their ability to survive inside macrophages and escape from these immune cells. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms behind intracellular survival and elaborate how escape is mediated by lytic and non-lytic pathways as well as strategies to induce programmed host cell death. We also discuss persistence as an alternative to rapid host cell exit. In the end, we address the consequences of fungal escape for the host immune response and provide future perspectives for research and development of targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Sonnberger
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Lydia Kasper
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Theresa Lange
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Sascha Brunke
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hube
- Department of Microbial Pathogenicity Mechanisms, Hans Knoell Institute, Jena, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
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10
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Zhang FY, Lian N, Li M. Macrophage pyroptosis induced by Candida albicans. Pathog Dis 2024; 82:ftae003. [PMID: 38499444 PMCID: PMC11162155 DOI: 10.1093/femspd/ftae003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a prevalent opportunistic pathogen that causes mucocutaneous and systemic infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Macrophages play a crucial role in eliminating C. albicans in local and bloodstream contexts, while also regulating antifungal immune responses. However, C. albicans can induce macrophage lysis through pyroptosis, a type of regulated cell death. This process can enable C. albicans to escape from immune cells and trigger the release of IL-1β and IL-18, which can impact both the host and the pathogen. Nevertheless, the mechanisms by which C. albicans triggers pyroptosis in macrophages and the key factors involved in this process remain unclear. In this review, we will explore various factors that may influence or trigger pyroptosis in macrophages induced by C. albicans, such as hypha, ergosterol, cell wall remodeling, and other virulence factors. We will also examine the possible immune response following macrophage pyroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-yuan Zhang
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology,Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 12th. JiangWangmiao street, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Ni Lian
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology,Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 12th. JiangWangmiao street, Nanjing, 210042, China
| | - Min Li
- Hospital for Skin Diseases, Institute of Dermatology,Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, 12th. JiangWangmiao street, Nanjing, 210042, China
- Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, 101st. LongMian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China
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11
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Olivier FAB, Traven A. Quantitative live-cell imaging of Candida albicans escape from immune phagocytes. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102737. [PMID: 37980567 PMCID: PMC10694764 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Population-level dynamics of host-pathogen interactions can be characterized using quantitative live-cell imaging. Here, we present a protocol for infecting macrophages with the fungal pathogen Candida albicans in vitro and quantitative live-cell imaging of immune and pathogen responses. We describe steps for detailed image analysis and provide resources for quantification of phagocytosis and pathogen escape, as well as macrophage membrane permeabilization and viability. This protocol is modifiable for applications with a range of pathogens, immune cell types, and host-pathogen mechanisms. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Olivier et al.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Françios A B Olivier
- Infection Program, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
| | - Ana Traven
- Infection Program, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
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12
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Verma P, Chauhan A, Thakur R, Lata K, Sharma A, Chattopadhyay K, Mukhopadhaya A. Vibrio parahaemolyticus thermostable direct haemolysin induces non-classical programmed cell death despite caspase activation. Mol Microbiol 2023; 120:845-873. [PMID: 37818865 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Thermostable direct haemolysin (TDH) is the key virulence factor secreted by the human gastroenteric bacterial pathogen Vibrio parahaemolyticus. TDH is a membrane-damaging pore-forming toxin. It evokes potent cytotoxicity, the mechanism of which still remains under-explored. Here, we have elucidated the mechanistic details of cell death response elicited by TDH. Employing Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells and THP-1 monocytic cells, we show that TDH induces some of the hallmark features of apoptosis-like programmed cell death. TDH triggers caspase-3 and 7 activations in the THP-1 cells, while caspase-7 activation is observed in the Caco-2 cells. Interestingly, TDH appears to induce caspase-independent cell death. Higher XIAP level and lower Smac/Diablo level upon TDH intoxication provide plausible explanation for the functional inability of caspases in the THP-1 cells, in particular. Further exploration reveals that mitochondria play a central role in the TDH-induced cell death. TDH triggers mitochondrial damage, resulting in the release of AIF and endonuclease G, responsible for the execution of caspase-independent cell death. Among the other critical mediators of cell death, ROS is found to play an important role in the THP-1 cells, while PARP-1 appears to play a critical role in the Caco-2 cells. Altogether, our work provides critical new insights into the mechanism of cell death induction by TDH, showing a common central theme of non-classical programmed cell death. Our study also unravels the interplay of crucial molecules in the underlying signalling processes. Our findings add valuable insights into the role of TDH in the context of the host-pathogen interaction processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Verma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Aakanksha Chauhan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Reena Thakur
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Kusum Lata
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Arpita Sharma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Kausik Chattopadhyay
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Arunika Mukhopadhaya
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, Mohali, Punjab, India
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13
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Mori T, Kataoka H, Into T. Effect of NLRP3 deficiency on cytotoxic and IL-1β-producing activities of synthetic candidalysin peptide. J Oral Biosci 2023; 65:287-292. [PMID: 37659475 DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2023.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Candidalysin (CL), a hydrophobic peptide toxin secreted by Candida albicans, is a key virulence factor that contributes to cytolysis, tissue damage, and immune activation. CL is thought to exert some of its biological activities, including IL-1β production, through the activation of the NLRP3-inflammasome pathway. To date, the mechanism by which CL affects human NLRP3 is not fully understood. We investigated specific activities of synthetic CL peptides using human-derived NLRP3-deficient cells. METHODS Two distinct synthetic CL peptide solutions were prepared: CLd, with CL completely solubilized as nanoparticles in dimethyl sulfoxide, and CLw, with CL partly solubilized in water, and including insoluble microparticles. THP-1 human monocytic cells and NLRP3-deficient THP-1 cells were differentiated into macrophages and stimulated with these peptide solutions. Cell membrane damage, lactate dehydrogenase release, IL-1β production, and caspase-1 activation in stimulated cells were subsequently evaluated. RESULTS Both CLd and CLw exhibited cytotoxic activities independent of NLRP3. Importantly, CLd induced IL-1β production and caspase-1 activation in an NLRP3-independent manner, whereas these activities in CLw-stimulated cells were entirely NLRP3-dependent, suggesting that the NLRP3-dependent response might be triggered by insoluble microparticles. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that inherent CL activities can cause cell damage and IL-1β production in an NLRP3-independent manner. Our research advances the elucidation of the role of NLRP3 in CL biological activity, underscoring the necessity for further exploration of the precise mechanisms underlying the NLRP3-independent effects of CL and providing novel insights into the complexity of host-pathogen interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiki Mori
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Division of Oral Infections Health Sciences, Asahi University School of Dentistry, 1851 Hozumi, Mizuho, Gifu 501-0296, Japan
| | - Hideo Kataoka
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Division of Oral Infections Health Sciences, Asahi University School of Dentistry, 1851 Hozumi, Mizuho, Gifu 501-0296, Japan
| | - Takeshi Into
- Department of Oral Microbiology, Division of Oral Infections Health Sciences, Asahi University School of Dentistry, 1851 Hozumi, Mizuho, Gifu 501-0296, Japan.
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14
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Miramón P, Pountain AW, Lorenz MC. Candida auris-macrophage cellular interactions and transcriptional response. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0027423. [PMID: 37815367 PMCID: PMC10652981 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00274-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenic yeast Candida auris represents a global threat of the utmost clinical relevance. This emerging fungal species is remarkable in its resistance to commonly used antifungal agents and its persistence in the nosocomial settings. The innate immune system is one the first lines of defense preventing the dissemination of pathogens in the host. C. auris is susceptible to circulating phagocytes, and understanding the molecular details of these interactions may suggest routes to improved therapies. In this work, we examined the interactions of this yeast with macrophages. We found that macrophages avidly phagocytose C. auris; however, intracellular replication is not inhibited, indicating that C. auris resists the killing mechanisms imposed by the phagocyte. Unlike Candida albicans, phagocytosis of C. auris does not induce macrophage lysis. The transcriptional response of C. auris to macrophage phagocytosis is very similar to other members of the CUG clade (C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. lusitaniae), i.e., downregulation of transcription/translation and upregulation of alternative carbon metabolism pathways, transporters, and induction of oxidative stress response and proteolysis. Gene family expansions are common in this yeast, and we found that many of these genes are induced in response to macrophage co-incubation. Among these, amino acid and oligopeptide transporters, as well as lipases and proteases, are upregulated. Thus, C. auris shares key transcriptional signatures shared with other fungal pathogens and capitalizes on the expansion of gene families coding for potential virulence attributes that allow its survival, persistence, and evasion of the innate immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Miramón
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, USA
| | | | - Michael C. Lorenz
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, USA
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15
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McCrory C, Verma J, Tucey TM, Turner R, Weerasinghe H, Beilharz TH, Traven A. The short-chain fatty acid crotonate reduces invasive growth and immune escape of Candida albicans by regulating hyphal gene expression. mBio 2023; 14:e0260523. [PMID: 37929941 PMCID: PMC10746253 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02605-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Microbes are exposed to nutritional and stress challenges in their environmental and host niches. To rise to these challenges, they regulate transcriptional programs that enable cellular adaptation. For instance, metabolite concentrations regulate post-translational modifications of chromatin, such as histone acetylation. In this way, metabolic signals are integrated with transcription. Over the last decade, several histone acylations have been discovered, including histone crotonylation. Their roles in microbial biology, environmental adaptation, and microbe-host interactions are incompletely defined. Here we show that the short-chain fatty acid crotonate, which is used to study histone crotonylation, changes cell morphology and immune interactions of Candida albicans. Crotonate reduces invasive hyphal morphogenesis of C. albicans within macrophages, thereby delaying macrophage killing and pathogen escape, as well as reducing inflammatory cytokine maturation. Crotonate's ability to reduce hyphal growth is environmentally contingent and pronounced within macrophages. Moreover, crotonate is a stronger hyphal inhibitor than butyrate under the conditions that we tested. Crotonate causes increased histone crotonylation in C. albicans under hyphal growth conditions and reduces transcription of hyphae-induced genes in a manner that involves the Nrg1 repressor pathway. Increasing histone acetylation by histone deacetylase inhibition partially rescues hyphal growth and gene transcription in the presence of crotonate. These results indicate that histone crotonylation might compete with acetylation in the regulation of hyphal morphogenesis. Based on our findings, we propose that diverse acylations of histones (and likely also non-histone proteins) enable C. albicans to respond to environmental signals, which in turn regulate its cell morphology and host-pathogen interactions.IMPORTANCEMacrophages curtail the proliferation of the pathogen Candida albicans within human body niches. Within macrophages, C. albicans adapts its metabolism and switches to invasive hyphal morphology. These adaptations enable fungal growth and immune escape by triggering macrophage lysis. Transcriptional programs regulate these metabolic and morphogenetic adaptations. Here we studied the roles of chromatin in these processes and implicate lysine crotonylation, a histone mark regulated by metabolism, in hyphal morphogenesis and macrophage interactions by C. albicans. We show that the short-chain fatty acid crotonate increases histone crotonylation, reduces hyphal formation within macrophages, and slows macrophage lysis and immune escape of C. albicans. Crotonate represses hyphal gene expression, and we propose that C. albicans uses diverse acylation marks to regulate its cell morphology in host environments. Hyphal formation is a virulence property of C. albicans. Therefore, a further importance of our study stems from identifying crotonate as a hyphal inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher McCrory
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jiyoti Verma
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Timothy M. Tucey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Rachael Turner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Stem Cells and Development Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Harshini Weerasinghe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Traude H. Beilharz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Stem Cells and Development Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Ana Traven
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Infection Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
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16
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Zhang Y, Zhang J, Sun J, Zhang M, Liu X, Yang L, Yin Y. Polyphyllin I, a strong antifungal compound against Candida albicans. APMIS 2023; 131:626-635. [PMID: 37754556 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
This study was performed to explore the antifungal and antibiofilm effects of polyphyllin I (PPI) on Candida albicans. Microdilution assay was performed to determine the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of PPI against Candida species. Adhesion assay, hyphal growth assay, biofilm formation, and development were used to test the impacts of PPI on C. albicans virulence factors. Propidium iodide staining was performed to test whether the permeability of cell membrane was influenced by PPI. PPI showed significant antifungal activities against several Candida species, with MIC below or equal to 6.25 μM. PPI also inhibited the adhesion to polystyrene surfaces, hyphal growth, and biofilm formation. PPI significantly increased the permeability of C. albicans cell membrane. In sum, PPI can suppress the planktonic growth and biofilm of C. albicans and its mechanism involves the increased permeability of cell membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jingxiao Zhang
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Eye Center, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Longfei Yang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetics, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yongjie Yin
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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17
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Lin Y, Yin Q, Tian D, Yang X, Liu S, Sun X, Chen Q, Fang B, Liang H, Li L, Zhuge D, Wang H, Weng C, Xu J, Hu C, Xie J, Zhang X, Yan L, Lu X, Wang F, Liu C, Hu Y, Chen M, Wang L, Chen Y. Vaginal Epithelial Cell Membrane-Based Phototherapeutic Decoy Confers a "Three-in-One" Strategy to Treat against Intravaginal Infection of Candida albicans. ACS NANO 2023; 17:12160-12175. [PMID: 37200053 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c12644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Phototherapy is an effective strategy to control Candida albicans (C. albicans) infection without raising the concern of drug resistance. Despite its effectiveness, a higher dose of phototherapeutic power is required for C. albicans elimination compared to bacteria that have to be used, which is readily accompanied by off-target heat and toxic singlet oxygen to damage normal cells, thus limiting its usefulness for antifungal applications. Here to overcome this, we develop a "three-in-one" biomimetic nanoplatform consisting of an oxygen-dissolved perfluorocarbon camouflaged by a photosensitizer-loaded vaginal epithelial cell membrane. With a cell membrane coating, the nanoplatform is capable of specifically binding with C. albicans at the superficial or deep vaginal epithelium, thereby centering the phototherapeutic agents on C. albicans. Meanwhile, the cell membrane coating endows the nanoplatform to competitively protect healthy cells from candidalysin-medicated cytotoxicity. Upon candidalysin sequestration, pore-forming on the surface of the nanoplatform accelerates release of the preloaded photosensitizer and oxygen, resulting in enhanced phototherapeutic power for improved anti-C. albicans efficacy under near-infrared irradiation. In an intravaginal C. albicans-infected murine model, treatment with the nanoplatform leads to a significantly decreased C. albicans burden, particularly when leveraging candidalysin for further elevated phototherapy and C. albicans inhibition. Also, the same trends hold true when using the nanoplatform to treat the clinical C. albicans isolates. Overall, this biomimetic nanoplatform can target and bind with C. albicans and simultaneously neutralize the candidalysin and then transform such toxins that are always considered a positive part in driving C. albicans infection with the power of enhancing phototherapy for improved anti-C. albicans efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijing Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Qingqing Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Innovation and Application of Intelligent Radiotherapy Technology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Dongyan Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Innovation and Application of Intelligent Radiotherapy Technology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xuewei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Innovation and Application of Intelligent Radiotherapy Technology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Shuangshuang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Innovation and Application of Intelligent Radiotherapy Technology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xueying Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo 315302, China
| | - Qiaoying Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Bingqing Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Hui Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo 315302, China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Innovation and Application of Intelligent Radiotherapy Technology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Deli Zhuge
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo 315302, China
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Haonan Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Cuiye Weng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Jie Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Chunnan Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Jiafeng Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xufei Zhang
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo 315302, China
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Linzhi Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Xiaosheng Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Caixia Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Yunliang Hu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Mengchun Chen
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo 315302, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Ledan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
| | - Yijie Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Zhejiang Engineering Research Center for Innovation and Application of Intelligent Radiotherapy Technology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325027, China
- Cixi Biomedical Research Institute, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo 315302, China
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18
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Weerasinghe H, Simm C, Djajawi TM, Tedja I, Lo TL, Simpson DS, Shasha D, Mizrahi N, Olivier FAB, Speir M, Lawlor KE, Ben-Ami R, Traven A. Candida auris uses metabolic strategies to escape and kill macrophages while avoiding robust activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome response. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112522. [PMID: 37204928 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic adaptations regulate the response of macrophages to infection. The contributions of metabolism to macrophage interactions with the emerging fungal pathogen Candida auris are poorly understood. Here, we show that C. auris-infected macrophages undergo immunometabolic reprogramming and increase glycolysis but fail to activate a strong interleukin (IL)-1β cytokine response or curb C. auris growth. Further analysis shows that C. auris relies on its own metabolic capacity to escape from macrophages and proliferate in vivo. Furthermore, C. auris kills macrophages by triggering host metabolic stress through glucose starvation. However, despite causing macrophage cell death, C. auris does not trigger robust activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Consequently, inflammasome-dependent responses remain low throughout infection. Collectively, our findings show that C. auris uses metabolic regulation to eliminate macrophages while remaining immunologically silent to ensure its own survival. Thus, our data suggest that host and pathogen metabolism could represent therapeutic targets for C. auris infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshini Weerasinghe
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Claudia Simm
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Tirta Mario Djajawi
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Irma Tedja
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Tricia L Lo
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Daniel S Simpson
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; The Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - David Shasha
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Naama Mizrahi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Françios A B Olivier
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Mary Speir
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Kate E Lawlor
- Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Ronen Ben-Ami
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Centre, Tel Aviv, Israel; Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ana Traven
- Infection Program and the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia; Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
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Gaziano R, Sabbatini S, Monari C. The Interplay between Candida albicans, Vaginal Mucosa, Host Immunity and Resident Microbiota in Health and Disease: An Overview and Future Perspectives. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1211. [PMID: 37317186 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), which is primarily caused by Candida albicans, is an infection that affects up to 75% of all reproductive-age women worldwide. Recurrent VVC (RVVC) is defined as >3 episodes per year and affects nearly 8% of women globally. At mucosal sites of the vagina, a delicate and complex balance exists between Candida spp., host immunity and local microbial communities. In fact, both immune response and microbiota composition play a central role in counteracting overgrowth of the fungus and maintaining homeostasis in the host. If this balance is perturbed, the conditions may favor C. albicans overgrowth and the yeast-to-hyphal transition, predisposing the host to VVC. To date, the factors that affect the equilibrium between Candida spp. and the host and drive the transition from C. albicans commensalism to pathogenicity are not yet fully understood. Understanding the host- and fungus-related factors that drive VVC pathogenesis is of paramount importance for the development of adequate therapeutic interventions to combat this common genital infection. This review focuses on the latest advances in the pathogenic mechanisms implicated in the onset of VVC and also discusses novel potential strategies, with a special focus on the use of probiotics and vaginal microbiota transplantation in the treatment and/or prevention of recurrent VVC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Gaziano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Samuele Sabbatini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Medical Microbiology Section, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Claudia Monari
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Medical Microbiology Section, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
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